Stephen Mitchell's translation of the Iliad is characterized by its straightforward and modern language, aiming for accessibility while maintaining the epic's grandeur. For instance, in his rendition of the famous opening lines, he uses direct and potent phrases like "rage of Achilles" and "godlike Achilles" to emphasize the intense emotions and the stature of the characters involved. His translation often highlights emotional depth and the human elements of the story, such as when he conveys Achilles’ internal conflict between glory and a long life with phrases like "my glory will live forever" versus "my life will be long and peaceful." This approach makes the epic's complex themes accessible to a contemporary audience, allowing them to resonate on a personal level. In contrast, Michael Reck's translation leans toward a more vivid and dynamic portrayal, with a focus on poetic elements and rhythmic cadence. He begins the epic with energetic language, describing Achilles' wrath as "maniac rage" and "ruinous thing," which injects a sense of urgency and volatility right from the start. His translation often uses descriptive language and metaphors, such as "the generations of leaves" to describe the cycle of human life, which helps to paint a more vivid picture of the epic's themes. In scenes of dialogue, like Athena encouraging Diomedes, Reck's colorful descriptions—calling Ares a "crook" and "renegade"—contribute to a more relatable and spirited depiction of the gods' interactions. This style allows the narrative to feel lively and engaging, emphasizing both the personal and the mythological aspects of the Iliad.
The rage of Achilles—sing it now, goddess, sing through me
the deadly rage that caused the Achaeans such grief
and hurled down to Hades the souls of so many fighters,
leaving their naked flesh to be eaten by dogs
and carrion birds, as the will of Zeus was accomplished.
Begin at the time when bitter words first divided
that king of men, Agamemnon, and godlike Achilles.
Sing, Goddess, Achilles' maniac rage:
ruinous thing! it roused a thousand sorrows
and hurled many souls of mighty warriors
to Hades, made their bodies food for dogs
and carrion birds—as Zeus's will foredoomed—
from the time relentless strife came between
Atreus' son, a king, and brave Achilles.